Our Story

A NOTE FROM ROCKY MCINTOSH:

Thank you for your interest in A GRAN Foundation. On behalf of my family, [Gavin, Rocky, Alessia, and Natalie-GRAN] let me just say that we are excited that you have made the decision to join us in empowering our youth with the tools for a successful future. Just by visiting our site today, you have become a member of our community and part of a team whose goal is to impact the lives of children around the globe.

I am blessed to have a career where I can provide entertainment and hopefully inspiration to people across America. I love football, and am so grateful for all those who continue to follow and support my efforts on and off the field. I don’t take for granted the privilege of this platform, and I hope that I can serve others in a worthwhile manner.

We started A GRAN Foundation because our family wanted to give back to the community in a truly meaningful way. Through A GRAN Foundation, we partner with organizations who are invested in empowering youth in our community. Our organization is intensely focused on supporting at risk-youth through connecting learning and health with mentoring and tracking of results. We also take great strides to involve the families and other authority figures of our young people because they are imperative to this process.

I grew up under difficult circumstances in a tough neighborhood and reaching success was not an easy path traveled. We moved around several times during my youth, so planting roots in various community organizations wasn’t always possible. I lacked some of the preparation necessary for accomplishing all of my dreams. Etiquette, proper diet, and mentorship were some tools not easily found in my environment. I wish I could have gained these skills and resources much earlier in my life.

After joining the NFL, I realized that I had an opportunity to reach out to young people who have challenges just as I had at one point in my life. I participated heavily in our team’s charitable events to include reading challenges, toy drives, and activity based programs for children. I also became very active in various community outreach efforts in the Washington DC Metro area. I wanted to be involved in the community and demonstrate that I cared about the futures of those around me. The time has come for me to use these experiences and build a legacy of kids helping kids to be healthier, stronger and better prepared for the world that lies ahead. I believe we have a responsibility to reach out our hands to lift youth out of the confines of their environment, and to them grant access to the tools that will enable them to have a successful future.